Spectrum usage protection in a shared wireless network

ABSTRACT

A wireless system is shared amongst a hierarchal tier of entities. A communication management resource receives notification that a second-tier priority entity has been allocated use of a second wireless spectrum as a replacement to first wireless spectrum. In one embodiment, the first wireless spectrum is revoked from the second-tier priority entity based on use of the first wireless spectrum by a first-tier priority entity (such as incumbent entity). The communication management resource controls a wireless transmit power level of a third-tier priority entity in the hierarchy to provide protected use of the second wireless spectrum by the second-tier priority entity. According to one configuration, the communication management resource controls a power level of wireless communications transmitted by a wireless base station operated by the third-tier priority entity.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation application of earlier filed U.S.patent application Ser. No. 17/491,468 entitled “SPECTRUM USAGEPROTECTION IN A SHARED WIRELESS NETWORK,” (Attorney Docket No.CHTR-2021-170), filed on Sep. 30, 2021, the entire teachings of whichare incorporated herein by this reference.

BACKGROUND

Conventional wireless networks typically include one or more wirelessbase stations to provide mobile communication devices access to a remotenetwork such as the Internet.

One type of wireless base station is a so-called CBSD (Citizen BroadbandRadio Service Device). Such a device uses a wireless channel allocatedfrom a CBRS (Citizens Band Radio Service) band to support communicationswith one or more mobile communication devices.

Typically, so-called SAS (Spectrum Access System) in a CBRS networkallocates one or more wireless channels to a CBSD (such as a wirelessbase station) to support communications with respective user equipmentsuch as one or more mobile communication devices. Each base station canbe configured to communicate with the SAS to receive notification of theone or more wireless channels allocated for its use. Controlledallocation of wireless channels by the spectrum access system helps toprevent interference by wireless stations sharing use of the samespectrum.

There are multiple different types of wireless channels in aconventional CBRS band. For example, portions of spectrum in a CBRS bandinclude so-called Priority Access License (PAL) wireless channels,General Authorized Access (GAA) wireless channels, or a combination ofboth.

In general, PAL wireless channels are licensed wireless channels inwhich a corresponding licensee (such as an entity paying for use of thewireless channel) is provided some protection of use. For example, whenno incumbent user requires use of the channels, in theory, the licensesentity is able to freely use the PAL wireless channels in respective oneor more predetermined geographical regions without interference by otherservice providers (such as lower priority GAA service providers).

Subsequent to allocation of one or more wireless channels, the wirelessbase stations use the allocated spectrum to provide one or morecommunication devices access to a remote network such as the Internet.

In an FCC (Federal Communications Commission) Auction, several companiesare awarded PAL licenses on a per county basis in the lower 10 CBRSchannels. A grant of PAL licenses to an operator affords the operatorprotection from co-channel interference generated by lower-tier GAAservice providers in the PAL Protection Area (PPA) per FCC Part 96rules.

A PAL licensee is required to protect higher tier (incumbent entityusers) at all times. In a situation where incumbent radar activity isdetected (e.g., a US naval aircraft carrier approaching US shoreline) ina Dynamic Protection Area (DPA), any operating PAL licensees operatingin channel(s) used by the radar, must vacate the channel(s) if and whenindicated by SAS/ESC.

Based on the knowledge of all CBSD locations and granted powers in aDPA, a respective SAS computes a list of channel grants for each of thefirst 10 channels in the CBRS band which would have to be suspended ifthe DPA becomes activated. It is called a move list. Use of a wirelesschannel in a DPA may impact 1 or 2 PAL channels temporarily.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

There are deficiencies associated with conventional techniques ofproviding wireless services to mobile communication devices. Forexample, a SAS may facilitate PAL CBSDs on the move list to findalternate channels in the CBRS band to continue operations. However,there is no mechanism defined in the standards to protect PAL fromco-channel GAA operation in the event of a move. Without protection, PALservice providers may face increased wireless interference or outageswith respect to use of assigned wireless channels.

Embodiments herein provide improved use of wireless spectrum, promotingfairness amongst licensed and unlicensed wireless network serviceproviders.

For example, a wireless system is shared amongst a hierarchal tier ofentities such as service providers and one or more incumbent entities. Acommunication management resource (such as communication managementhardware, communication management software, or combination ofcommunication management hardware and communication management software)receives notification that a second-tier priority entity has beenallocated use of a second wireless spectrum as a replacement to firstwireless spectrum. In one embodiment, the first wireless spectrum isrevoked from the second-tier priority entity based on use of the firstwireless spectrum by a first-tier priority incumbent entity. Thefirst-tier priority entity has higher priority rights than thesecond-tier priority entity. The communication management resourcecontrols a wireless transmit power level of a third-tier priority entityin the hierarchy to provide protected use of the second wirelessspectrum by the second-tier priority entity. The second-tier priorityentity has higher priority rights than the third-tier priority entity

In further example embodiments, control of the wireless transmit powerlevel of the third-tier priority entity includes controlling a powerlevel of wireless communications transmitted by a wireless base stationoperated by the third-tier priority entity.

Still further example embodiments include, via the communicationmanagement resource, receiving an identity of a first wireless basestation operated by the second-tier priority entity; determining aregion of wireless coverage provided by the first wireless base station;and controlling a power level of wireless communications transmitted bya second wireless base station (which is operated by the third-tierpriority entity) to reduce wireless interference caused by the secondwireless base station in the first region of wireless coverage. In oneembodiment, both the first wireless base station and the second wirelessbase station transmit the wireless communications in the first wirelessspectrum.

Still further example embodiments include, via the communicationmanagement resource, receiving an identity of a first wireless basestation operated by the second-tier priority entity; determining aregion of wireless coverage provided by the first wireless base station;and controlling a power level of wireless communications transmitted bya second wireless base station operated by the third-tier priorityentity to reduce wireless interference caused by the second wirelessbase station in the first region of wireless coverage. In oneembodiment, both the first wireless base station and the second wirelessbase station transmit the wireless communications in the first wirelessspectrum.

Further embodiments herein include, via the communication managementresource, receiving identities of multiple wireless base stationsoperated by the second-tier priority entity using the second wirelessspectrum. The communication management resource determines a firstregion of wireless coverage provided by multiple wireless base stationsand controls a power level of wireless communications transmitted by asecond wireless base station operated by the third-tier priority entityto reduce wireless interference caused by the second wireless basestation in the first region of wireless coverage.

In yet further example embodiments, control of the wireless transmitpower level by the third-tier priority entity includes: identifying afirst region of wireless coverage provided by the second-tier priorityentity using the second wireless spectrum; identifying a second regionof wireless coverage provided by the third-tier priority entity; andthen determining an overlap region between the first region of wirelesscoverage and the second region of wireless coverage.

Note that the first region of wireless coverage can be configured torepresent an ability to provide wireless connectivity by one or morebase stations. For example, in one embodiment, the first region ofwireless coverage represents a region supported by a single wirelessbase station operated by the second-tier priority entity. Alternatively,the first region of wireless coverage represents a region supported bymultiple wireless base stations operated by the second-tier priorityentity.

Control of the wireless transmit power level by the third tier entitycan be implemented in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, thecommunication management resource compares a size of the overlap regionto a threshold size. The communication management resource controls awireless power level of a third-tier priority entity in correspondingbase station based on the comparison. For example, in response todetecting that the size of the overlap region is greater than thethreshold size, the communication management resource reduces amagnitude of the wireless transmit power level of the third-tierpriority entity using the second wireless spectrum.

In still further example embodiments, the second-tier priority entitysuch as a PAL (Priority Access Licensed) entity is granted use of thesecond wireless spectrum based on a license assigned to the second-tierpriority entity; the second-tier priority entity is afforded protecteduse of the second wireless spectrum from the third-tier priority entitybased on the license. The third-tier priority entity such as a GAA(General Authorized Access) entity is a non-licensed entity in thehierarchy. The first-tier priority user is an incumbent entity in thewireless system implementing use of a CBRS (Citizen Band Radio Service)band or other suitable band.

In further example embodiments, the second-tier priority entity isregistered with a first allocation management resource (such as firstspectrum access system). The third-tier priority entity is registeredwith a second allocation management resource (such as a second spectrumaccess system). In such an instance, the second allocation managementresource receives the notification that the second-tier priority entityhas been allocated use of a second wireless spectrum as a replacement tofirst wireless spectrum and controls a wireless transmit power level ofa third-tier priority entity in the hierarchy to provide protected useof the second wireless spectrum by the second-tier priority entity.

In still further example embodiments, controlling the wireless transmitpower level of the third-tier priority entity includes: receivingidentities of multiple wireless base stations operated by thesecond-tier priority entity using the second wireless spectrum;determining a first region of wireless coverage provided by multiplewireless base stations; and controlling a power level of wirelesscommunications transmitted by a second wireless base station operated bythe third-tier priority entity to reduce wireless interference caused bythe second wireless base station in the first region of wirelesscoverage.

In further example embodiments, the communication management hardware(such as communication management entity or other suitable resource):receives a first region of wireless coverage provided by multiplewireless base stations operated by the second-tier priority entity; andcontrols a power level of wireless communications transmitted by awireless base station operated by the third-tier priority entity toreduce wireless interference caused by the second wireless base stationin the first region of wireless coverage.

Thus, embodiments herein provide novel ways of providing improved use ofwireless channels and protection amongst different entities sharing useof spectrum in a wireless network environment.

Note that any of the resources as discussed herein can include one ormore computerized devices, mobile communication devices, servers, basestations, wireless communication equipment, communication managementsystems, controllers, workstations, user equipment, handheld or laptopcomputers, or the like to carry out and/or support any or all of themethod operations disclosed herein. In other words, one or morecomputerized devices or processors can be programmed and/or configuredto operate as explained herein to carry out the different embodiments asdescribed herein.

Yet other embodiments herein include software programs to perform thesteps and operations summarized above and disclosed in detail below. Onesuch embodiment comprises a computer program product including anon-transitory computer-readable storage medium (i.e., any computerreadable hardware storage medium) on which software instructions areencoded for subsequent execution. The instructions, when executed in acomputerized device (hardware) having a processor, program and/or causethe processor (hardware) to perform the operations disclosed herein.Such arrangements are typically provided as software, code,instructions, and/or other data (e.g., data structures) arranged orencoded on a non-transitory computer readable storage medium such as anoptical medium (e.g., CD-ROM), floppy disk, hard disk, memory stick,memory device, etc., or other a medium such as firmware in one or moreROM, RAM, PROM, etc., or as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit(ASIC), etc. The software or firmware or other such configurations canbe installed onto a computerized device to cause the computerized deviceto perform the techniques explained herein.

Accordingly, embodiments herein are directed to a method, system,computer program product, executable instructions, etc., that supportsoperations as discussed herein.

One embodiment includes a computer readable storage medium and/or systemhaving instructions stored thereon to facilitate wireless communicationsin a network environment. The instructions, when executed by computerprocessor hardware, cause the computer processor hardware (such as oneor more co-located or disparately processor devices) to: in a wirelesssystem shared amongst a hierarchy of users: receive notification that asecond-tier priority entity in a hierarchy has been allocated use of asecond wireless spectrum as an alternative to first wireless spectrum,the first wireless spectrum revoked from the second-tier priority userby a first-tier priority user; and control a wireless power level of athird-tier priority user in the hierarchy to provide protected use ofthe second wireless spectrum by the second-tier priority user.

The ordering of the steps above has been added for clarity sake. Notethat any of the processing steps as discussed herein can be performed inany suitable order.

Other embodiments of the present disclosure include software programsand/or respective hardware to perform any of the method embodiment stepsand operations summarized above and disclosed in detail below.

It is to be understood that the system, method, apparatus, instructionson computer readable storage media, etc., as discussed herein also canbe embodied strictly as a software program, firmware, as a hybrid ofsoftware, hardware and/or firmware, or as hardware alone such as withina processor (hardware or software), or within an operating system or awithin a software application.

As discussed herein, techniques herein are well suited for use in thefield of providing improved wireless services to communication devices.However, it should be noted that embodiments herein are not limited touse in such applications and that the techniques discussed herein arewell suited for other applications as well.

Additionally, note that although each of the different features,techniques, configurations, etc., herein may be discussed in differentplaces of this disclosure, it is intended, where suitable, that each ofthe concepts can optionally be executed independently of each other orin combination with each other. Accordingly, the one or more presentinventions as described herein can be embodied and viewed in manydifferent ways.

Also, note that this preliminary discussion of embodiments herein (BRIEFDESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS) purposefully does not specify everyembodiment and/or incrementally novel aspect of the present disclosureor claimed invention(s). Instead, this brief description only presentsgeneral embodiments and corresponding points of novelty overconventional techniques. For additional details and/or possibleperspectives (permutations) of the invention(s), the reader is directedto the Detailed Description section (which is a summary of embodiments)and corresponding figures of the present disclosure as further discussedbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an example diagram illustrating a wireless network environmentimplementing hierarchical wireless spectrum allocation according toembodiments herein.

FIG. 2 is an example diagram illustrating channel allocation informationand switchover from a primary spectrum allocation to a backup wirelessspectrum allocation according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 3 is an example diagram illustrating a trigger event andimplementation of secondary wireless spectrum allocation according toembodiments herein.

FIG. 4 is an example diagram illustrating detection of an overlap regionof wireless interference according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 5 is an example diagram illustrating adjustment of a transmit powerlevel from a wireless base station to reduce an overlap region andcorresponding wireless interference according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 6 is an example diagram illustrating a trigger event anddiscontinued use of a wireless channel according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 7 is an example diagram illustrating partitioning of a licensedentity protection area in response to a trigger event according toembodiments herein.

FIG. 8 is an example diagram illustrating detection of an overlap regionof wireless interference according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 9 is an example diagram illustrating adjustment of a transmit powerlevel from a wireless base station to reduce an overlap region andcorresponding wireless interference according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 10 is an example diagram illustrating allocation of spectrum from aCBRS (Citizen Band Radio Service) according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating example computer architecture toexecute one or more operations according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 12 is an example diagram illustrating a method according toembodiments herein.

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of theinvention will be apparent from the following more particulardescription of preferred embodiments herein, as illustrated in theaccompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to thesame parts throughout the different views. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed uponillustrating the embodiments, principles, concepts, etc.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Priority Access License (PAL) holders (such as entities) purchasewireless licenses and reserve the right to use them in correspondingpre-determined geographical areas of operation. If there are PALoperators (i.e., licensed operators) in a CBRS network, the main purposeof SAS (Spectrum Access System) is to protect these PAL holders(licensed wireless network entities) from the interference generated byother users in the network. Another purpose of the spectrum accesssystem is to prevent PAL users and GAA users from using respectivewireless channels acquired and used by an incumbent entity.

According to one embodiment, multiple entities (such as users, serviceproviders incumbent entity, etc.) in a tiered hierarchy share use of awireless spectrum. A communication management resource receivesnotification that a second-tier priority entity (i.e., an entityassigned the second tier priority) in the hierarchy has been allocateduse of a second wireless spectrum as a replacement to first wirelessspectrum. Assume that the first wireless spectrum is revoked from thesecond-tier priority entity based on use of the first wireless spectrumby a first-tier priority entity (such as incumbent entity or first tierpriority in the hierarchy). In such an instance, the communicationmanagement resource controls a wireless transmit power level of athird-tier priority entity (i.e., an entity assigned the third tierpriority) in the hierarchy to provide protected use of the secondwireless spectrum by the second-tier priority entity. In one embodiment,control of the wireless transmit power level of the third-tier priorityentity includes controlling a power level of wireless communicationstransmitted by a wireless base station operated by the third-tierpriority entity. In one embodiment, control includes decreasing orterminating use of the second wireless spectrum by the third-tierpriority entity.

Techniques as described herein are advantageous because licensedoperators (such as PAL users) are afforded novel protection via backupspectrum allocation information when a portion of licensed wirelesschannels are unavailable for use. The methods described herein alsoallow an allocation management resource such as a spectrum access systemto offer protection to PAL service providers (such as CBSDs) with lowcomputational complexity and low information exchange across multipleallocation management resources (spectrum access systems).

Now, more specifically, FIG. 1 is an example diagram illustrating awireless network environment implementing hierarchical spectrumallocation based on different priority tiers according to embodimentsherein.

As shown in this example embodiment, network environment 100 includesspectrum manager 130, spectrum monitor 140, spectrum allocationmanagement resource 141 (such as spectrum access system SAS1), spectrumallocation management resource 142 (such as spectrum access systemSAS2), wireless stations 131 (namely, wireless station 131-1, wirelessstation 131-2, . . . ), wireless stations 132 (namely, wireless station132-1, wireless station 132-2, . . . ), communication devices CD11,CD12, . . . , communication devices CD21, CD22, . . . , and network 190(such as including the Internet, wireless infrastructure, etc.).

Each communication device is mobile or stationary with respect to awireless station providing it access to network 190.

As further shown, wireless station 131-1 (such as operated by a firstwireless network service provider, first entity, etc.) is disposed atlocation L11 providing communication devices CD11, CD12, etc., access tonetwork 190; wireless station 131-2 is disposed at location L12, and soon.

Wireless station 132-1 (such as operated by a second wireless networkservice provider, second entity, etc.) is disposed at location L21providing communication devices CD21, CD22, etc., access to network 190;wireless station 132-2 is disposed at location L22, and so on.

In one embodiment, the wireless base station 131-1 operates in aso-called PPA 177 (i.e., PAL Protection Area or licensed protectionarea) in which the spectrum allocation management resource 141, spectrumallocation management resource 142, etc., protect use of the PAL users(second-tier priority entity such as service providers, etc.) andcorresponding use of allocated licensed wireless channels. As furtherdiscussed herein, protection includes reducing a likelihood that any PALusers (licensed users) in the PPA 177 experience wireless interferencefrom other wireless stations (non-licensed entities).

In further example embodiments, in the network environment 100 and PPA177, an incumbent user (such as a first-tier priority entity) hashighest priority rights to use respective wireless channels. If thespectrum monitor 140 detects use of one or more wireless channels byhigher priority users such as the first-tier priority entity or aso-called incumbent entity, the spectrum monitor 140 notifies thespectrum allocation management resources 141 and 142 of this condition.One or more of the spectrum allocation management resources 141 and 142,in turn, notify (such as immediately or within a short timeframe such asa few minutes) the wireless stations (and corresponding wireless networkservice providers) to discontinue use of such wireless channels used bythe incumbent entity such as a first-tier priority entity.

In still further embodiments, each of the spectrum allocation managementresources individually or collectively keeps track of a respectivelocation of each of the wireless stations and allocated wirelesschannels such that two or more wireless stations implementing wirelesscommunications do not interfere with each other. For example, in oneembodiment, the spectrum allocation management resources allocatedifferent wireless channels to wireless stations that are in the samelocation or geographical region to prevent occurrence of wirelessinterference.

Note that each of the resources (such as wireless stations,communication devices, spectrum allocation management resources,spectrum monitor, spectrum manager, etc.) in network environment 100 canbe configured to include appropriate hardware, software, or combinationof hardware and software to carry out respective operations as discussedherein.

For example, spectrum manager 130 can be configured as spectrum managerhardware, spectrum manager software, or a combination of spectrummanager hardware and spectrum manager software; spectrum monitor 140 canbe configured as spectrum monitor hardware, spectrum monitor software,or a combination of spectrum monitor hardware and spectrum monitorsoftware; spectrum allocation management resource 141 (such as acommunication management resource) can be configured as spectrumallocation management hardware, spectrum allocation management software,or a combination of spectrum allocation management hardware and spectrumallocation management software; spectrum allocation management resource142 (such as communication management resource) can be configured asspectrum allocation management hardware, spectrum allocation managementsoftware, or a combination of spectrum allocation management hardwareand spectrum allocation management software; wireless station 131-1(such as a communication management resource) can be configured aswireless station hardware, wireless station software, or a combinationof wireless station hardware and wireless station software; wirelessstation 132-1 (such as a communication management resource) can beconfigured as wireless station hardware, wireless station software, or acombination of wireless station hardware and wireless station software;and so on.

During further operation, the spectrum manager 130 produces spectrumallocation information 150 indicating allocation of spectrum to each ofthe wireless stations in network environment 100.

In this example embodiment, the spectrum manager 130 distributes thespectrum allocation information 150 to each of one or more spectrumallocation management resource 141 (such as SAS1) and spectrumallocation management resource 142 (such as SAS2).

For example, the spectrum manager 130 or other suitable entitydistributes the spectrum allocation information 150 (predeterminedwireless channel allocation information) including primary spectrumallocation information 151 and the backup spectrum allocationinformation 152 to multiple instances of spectrum allocation managementresources such as including spectrum allocation management resource 141(such as a first spectrum access system providing spectrum allocation toa first wireless network service provider operating the wireless station131-1, 131-2, etc.) and spectrum allocation management resource 142(such as a second spectrum access system providing spectrum allocationto a second wireless network service provider operating the wirelessstations 132-1, 132-2, etc.).

In one embodiment, the spectrum allocation management resourcesperiodically communicate with each other to synchronize use of wirelesschannels so that the respective users do not interference with eachother.

Note further that the spectrum allocation management resources (such ascommunication management hardware, software, etc., receiving thespectrum allocation information 150) as discussed herein can beimplemented in any suitable manner.

For example, in one embodiment, the spectrum allocation managementresource 141 and the second spectrum allocation management resource 142can be disparately located with respect to each other. Alternatively,the spectrum allocation management resources can be combined into asingle spectrum allocation management resource (such as a single SASresource) disposed at a central location to control operation ofwireless channels to wireless stations operated by different wirelessnetwork service providers.

The different wireless network service providers subscribe to wirelesschannel (such as wireless spectrum, bandwidth, wireless channels, etc.)allocation services provided by the spectrum allocation managementresources. For example, certain users (i.e., wireless network serviceproviders such as PAL entities) pay a fee for a license to use wirelessspectrum.

As discussed herein, coordination and implementation of the spectrumallocation information 150 (such as primary spectrum allocationinformation 151 and backup spectrum allocation information 152) tocontrol wireless stations operated by multiple wireless network serviceproviders (such as PAL users and GAA users) ensures fair use ofcorresponding available spectrum (wireless channels #1-10).

In this example embodiment, the incumbent entity is a first-tierpriority user in the priority hierarchy, the PAL users are second-tierpriority users in the priority hierarchy, and the GAA users arethird-tier priority users in the priority hierarchy.

In the hierarchy, the incumbent users (first-tier priority entities)have highest priority access rights; the PAL users (second-tier priorityentities) have second highest priority access rights; the GAA users(third-tier priority entities) have the lowest priority access rights.

The wireless stations in network environment 100 can be operated by anynumber of multiple different service providers. For example, in oneembodiment, the first wireless stations 131-1, 131-2, etc., are operatedby a first wireless network service provider (second-tier priority useror PAL user); the first wireless network service provider has a license(such as via paying a license fee) to use the first wireless spectrum.

The second wireless stations 132-1, 132-2, etc., are operated by asecond wireless network service provider (third-tier priority entity orGAA entity); the second wireless network service provider being anon-licensed entity of the second spectrum.

Licensed entities (wireless network service providers and correspondingwireless stations such as second-tier priority entities) are assigned ahigher priority to use wireless channels 1-10 (in the licensed wirelesschannel band) than non-licensed entities (third-tier priority entities).

In still further example embodiments, note that the one or moreallocation management resource (such as 141, 142, etc.) can beconfigured to notify one or more second second-tier priority entities(such as wireless station 131-1, 131-2, etc.) in the wireless systemabout temporary spectrum assignments (such as based on primaryallocation information 151 and backup allocation information 152) inadvance of implementing a reallocation of wireless spectrum. In oneembodiment, the second-tier priority entities configure their userequipment (such as wireless stations) for appropriate bandwidth parts touse for switching between the primary and temporary spectrumassignments.

As further shown in FIG. 2 , even though a portion (such as 7 channels)of the wireless channels 1-10 are allocated/reserved for use by licensedentities, different portions of the licensed spectrum of wirelesschannels 1-10 are allocated for use by different PAL (licensed wirelessnetwork service providers) and GAA entities (unlicensed wireless networkservice providers) depending on which of the wireless channels 1-10 areavailable for use in the spectrum hierarchy.

FIG. 2 is an example diagram illustrating primary channel allocationinformation and backup channel allocation information according toembodiments herein.

In this example embodiment, the spectrum allocation information 150includes primary spectrum allocation information 151 and backup spectrumallocation information 152.

In general, the first or primary spectrum allocation information 151 isimplemented during conditions in which none of the wireless channels1-10 are used by an incumbent entity. The backup spectrum allocationinformation 152 is implemented during conditions in which one or more ofthe wireless channels 1-10 are unavailable due to use of respectivewireless channels by an incumbent entity (i.e., higher priority user).

The wireless spectrum as discussed herein includes any number of one ormore wireless channels.

For example, assume in this example embodiment that the first spectrumallocated to the wireless station 131-1 includes wireless channel #1assigned for use by the first wireless station 131-1 (second-tierpriority entity) during the first condition of all wireless channels#1-10 being available for use by PAL and GAA users. The primary spectrumallocation information 151 also includes a second wireless spectrum suchas wireless channel #2 assigned for use by the second wireless station132-1 (third-tier priority entity) during the first condition of allwireless channels #1-10 being available for use by PAL and GAA users.

In one embodiment, the wireless channels #2, #3, and #4 representspectrum allocated to GAA users in the primary spectrum allocationinformation 151; the wireless channels #1 and #5-10 represent spectrumallocated to PAL users in the primary spectrum allocation information151 during the first condition.

Thus, even though the wireless channels #1-10 represent licensedwireless channels, only seven wireless channels out of the ten wirelesschannels are allocated for use by licensed wireless network serviceproviders.

As previously discussed, the spectrum allocation information 150 alsoincludes backup spectrum allocation information 152 for implementationduring a second condition when not all of the wireless channels #1-10are available for users.

For example, in accordance with a backup assignment (secondary spectrumallocation information 152) associated with a first group of wirelesschannels #1 and #5: i) wireless channel #2 is a backup allocation forwireless channel #1 in the event that wireless channel #1 is notavailable for use by a respective licensed entity by a respectivelicensed entity; ii) wireless channel #4 is a backup allocation forwireless channel #5 in the event that wireless channel #5 is notavailable for use.

In one embodiment, the spectrum manager 130 chooses which of thewireless channels to include in the first group and the second groupbased on the likelihood of the wireless channels being reallocatedduring incumbent use.

In still further example embodiments, the wireless channels #1-10 areten of sixteen wireless channels available from a tiered wirelesschannel hierarchy (such as a CBRS band further discussed in FIG. 10 andcorresponding text) in which a first wireless network service provideroperating the first wireless stations 131-1, 131-2, etc., has higherpriority access rights to use of the wireless spectrum channels #1-10than a second wireless network service provider operating the secondwireless stations 132-1, 132-2, etc.

In other words, as discussed herein, because the wireless channels areallocated from a tiered channel hierarchy, one or more of the wirelesschannels #2 and #4 are deallocated from an unlicensed wireless networkservice provider (GAA, non-licensed user) and re-allocated to a licensedwireless network service provider (PAL, licensed user) during backupconditions when the incumbent entity uses the wireless channels #1 or#5.

Thus, implementation of the backup or secondary spectrum allocationinformation 152 provides spectrum usage protection to the first wirelessnetwork service provider operating wireless base station 131-1, 131-2,etc., granted a license to use all or a portion of the wireless channels#1-10. In other words, if a portion of the first wireless spectrumbecomes unavailable for use by the first wireless stations 131-1, 131-2,etc., operated by the first wireless network service provider in theprotection area 177, the first wireless stations (and correspondingfirst wireless network service provider) are allocated use of the backupwireless spectrum assignment as indicated by the secondary spectrumallocation information 152.

Referring again to FIG. 1 , as previously discussed, via the spectrummanager 130, the spectrum allocation management resource 141 (such ascommunication management hardware, communication management software, orcombination of both) receives notification of primary spectrumallocation information 151 and backup spectrum allocation information152. Thus, in one embodiment, the temporary spectrum assignments asspecified by the secondary spectrum allocation information 152 forsecond-tier priority users and third-tier priority users arepre-determined and are consistent across all spectrum access systems(such as SAS1, SAS2, etc.) providing allocation service in a servicearea.

Spectrum allocation management resource 142 (such as communicationmanagement hardware, communication management software, or combinationof both) also receives notification of primary spectrum allocationinformation 151 and secondary (backup) spectrum allocation information152.

Each of the spectrum allocation management resources 141 and 142 controluse of the wireless channels #1-10 in accordance with the spectrumallocation information 150 depending on the current operating conditionsof network environment 100.

For example, in one embodiment, the spectrum monitor 140 (such as an ESCor Environmental Sensing Capability) monitors use of the availablewireless channels 1-10 by higher priority users. In one nonlimitingexample embodiment, the spectrum monitor 140 is or includes a network ofsensors used to detect federal frequency use in the 3550-3650 MHz band(or other suitable band) in protection zones where military radarsystems can operate.

In FIG. 1 , assume that the spectrum monitor 140 does not detect use bya higher priority user (e.g., incumbent, government user, etc.).

As shown, via communication 123-1, the wireless station 131-1 (such asoperated by a second-tier priority wireless network service provider)registers with the spectrum allocation management resource 141.Subsequent to registration, the wireless station 131-1 communicates withthe spectrum allocation management resource 141 for allocation ofspectrum (such as one or more wireless channels). In this exampleembodiment, as indicated by the spectrum allocation information 151, thespectrum allocation management resource 141 allocates wireless station131-1 use of wireless channel #1. In a similar manner, the wireless basestation 131-2 communicates with the spectrum allocation managementresource 141 to register for use of wireless spectrum such as allocatedwireless channel #1.

As shown, via communication 123-2, the wireless station 132-1 (such asoperated by a third-tier priority wireless network service provider)registers with the spectrum allocation management resource 142.Subsequent to registration, the wireless station 132-1 communicates withthe spectrum allocation management resource 142 for allocation ofspectrum (such as one or more wireless channels). In this exampleembodiment, as indicated by the spectrum allocation information 151, thespectrum allocation management resource 142 allocates wireless station132-1 use of wireless channels #2 during absence of the incumbent entityusing any wireless channels.

Thus, initially, during the first mode when all wireless channels #1-10are available, the spectrum allocation management resource 141implements usage of wireless channels #1-10 in accordance with theprimary spectrum allocation information 151 via: i) allocation of firstwireless spectrum (such as wireless channel #1) to first wirelessstation 131-1 and the second wireless station 131-2, and ii) allocationof second wireless spectrum (such as wireless channel #2) to a secondwireless station 132-1 and wireless station 132-2 in a networkenvironment 100.

FIG. 3 is an example diagram illustrating detection of a trigger eventand implementation of backup spectrum allocation information accordingto embodiments herein.

As further shown in FIG. 3 , via input 321 (such as detected uses ofwireless channel #1 by a respective incumbent entity), the spectrummonitor 130 detects a trigger event such as use of wireless channel #1by a respective incumbent user. More specifically, in one embodiment,the trigger event use of wireless channel #1 itself or notificationindicating use of the first wireless spectrum (such as wirelesschannel 1) by a spectrum user (first-tier priority user) having higherpriority rights than the first wireless network service provider(second-priority tier user) operating the wireless station 131-1.

In such an instance, in response to the trigger event, the spectrummonitor 130 transmits communications 322-1 and 322-2 to the spectrumallocation management resources 141 and 142. The communications 322(indicating the need or use of wireless channel #1 by the incumbententity) causes the spectrum allocation management resources 141 and 142to implement the backup spectrum allocation information in the PPA 177(licensed protection area) so that the wireless network service provideroperating the wireless base station 131-1 is provided protection andcontinued allocation of wireless spectrum.

For example, in response to detecting the trigger event as indicated bythe communications 322 (communications 322-1 and communications 322-2),and determining that both the first wireless station 131-1 and thesecond wireless station 132-1 are in a same geographical region (subjectto wireless interference with respect to each other in a PPA 177), thespectrum allocation management resources implement the backup spectrumallocation information 152 in the PPA 177.

In one embodiment, because the wireless base station 131-2 and wirelessbase station 132-2 reside outside the PPA 177, there is no need toadjust use of such wireless channels allocated to them.

In accordance with the backup spectrum allocation information 152, inresponse to receiving communication 322-1, the spectrum allocationmanagement resource 141 notifies (via communications 323-1) the firstwireless station 131-1 to discontinue use of the first wireless spectrum(wireless channel #1) and to use second wireless spectrum (wirelesschannel #2) to transmit wireless communications in the networkenvironment 100 to communication devices CD11, CD12, etc.

In accordance with further example embodiments, if the spectrumallocation management resource 141 or spectrum allocation managementresource 142 is unaware of a backup allocation event such as due to notreceiving communications 322 from the spectrum monitor 130, therespective spectrum allocation management resource may continue use ofthe wireless channels as usual without protecting a PAL protection areain the assigned backup PAL channels until a next CPAS (CoordinatedPeriodic Activities among SASs) cycle supporting communications 350.

In one embodiment, CPAS communications (such as communications 350)represent a daily, occasional, periodic, etc., process in which allspectrum allocation management resources in network environment 100synchronize allocation of wireless channels to ensure protection ofincumbent entities. For example, the spectrum allocation managementresources avoid allocating use of a particular wireless channel if it isunavailable due to use by an incumbent entity.

Thus, if the spectrum allocation management resources do not immediatelyreceive notification of an incumbent user via communications 322, thespectrum allocation management resource will learn of such use viacommunications 350 and implement backup wireless channel usage.

In this example embodiment, it is noted that the spectrum allocationmanagement resource 142 can be one or more multiple spectrum allocationmanagement resources (spectrum access systems) that do not serve(allocate wireless channels to) the wireless base station 131-1. In oneembodiment, in response to receiving notification at the spectrumallocation management resource 142 that a first-priority tier entitytemporarily needs access to spectrum such as wireless channel #1assigned to a second-priority tier 2 user (such as wireless networkservice provider operating the wireless base station 131-1) who is notserved by the spectrum access system 142, as further discussed herein,the spectrum allocation management resource 142 provides protection tothe second-priority tier 2 user operating wireless base station 131-1and use of wireless channel #2 in accordance with pre-determinedtemporary spectrum assignments (backup spectral allocation information152) implemented by the multiple spectrum access systems as discussedherein.

FIG. 4 is an example diagram illustrating switchover from implementationof primary spectrum allocation to implementation of backup spectrumallocation and detection of an overlap region of wireless interferenceaccording to embodiments herein.

As previously discussed, in response to detecting the trigger event(incumbent use) in which wireless channel #1 (first wireless spectrum)is no longer available for use because the first-tier priority entitytemporarily needs use of the first wireless spectrum (such as wirelesschannel #1), and determining that the first wireless station 131-1 andthe second wireless station 132-1 are in a PPA 177 or disposed in thesame geographical region: i) the spectrum allocation management resource142 can be configured to notify the second wireless station 132-1 todiscontinue use of the wireless channel #1 to transmit communications inthe network environment.

However, according to certain embodiments herein, it is noted that it isdesirable to continue to allow the wireless base station 132-1 tocontinue using wireless channel #2 (even though it is a lowest tieruser) if it does not interfere with use of the wireless channel #2 bythe wireless base station 131-1.

To this end, in one embodiment, the communication management entity 442such as associated with the spectrum allocation management resource 142receives notification or determines that the wireless base station 132-1is operated in a vicinity of the wireless base station 131-1. In such aninstance, the communication management entity 442 implements appropriatemonitoring and adjustment to the operations of the wireless base station132-1 such that it does not interfere with the wireless base station131-1.

In one embodiment, techniques as described herein allow the allocationmanagement resources or other suitable entity to offer protection to PALwireless base stations in the PPA 177 via low computational complexityand low information exchange across multiple allocation managementresources. For example, in one embodiment, the allocation managementresource 142 implements the communication management entity 442 todetermine the region of wireless coverage information associated withthe use of the wireless base station 131-1.

Further, to this end, the spectrum allocation management resource 142 orother suitable entity receives or determines a respective region ofwireless coverage 431-1 provided by the wireless base station 131-1. Theregion of wireless coverage 431-1 corresponds to a respective range ofthe wireless base station 131-1 being able to communicate withcorresponding communication devices in network environment 100.

The spectrum allocation management resource 142 or other suitable entitysuch as communication management entity 442 receives notification of ordetermines a respective region of wireless coverage 432-1 provided bythe wireless base station 132-1.

The spectrum allocation management resource 142 then determines overlaparea value 444-1A (such as in square meters, feet, or other suitablemetric) indicating a size of the overlap region 444-1 associated withthe region of wireless coverage 431-1 with respect to the region ofwireless coverage 432-1. In general, if the magnitude of the overlaparea value 441-1A associated with overlap region 441-1 is very small,negligible, or zero, then the wireless base station 132-1 is free tocontinue to use the wireless channel #2 at the transmit power level P1(such as a maximum possible transmit power level).

More specifically, in this example embodiment, to protect the wirelessbase station 131-1 and corresponding communication devices fromexperiencing co-channel interference, the communication managemententity 442 compares the magnitude of the overlap area value 444-1A to athreshold level 446 representing a maximum allowed overlap area. Aspreviously discussed, if the magnitude of the overlap area value 444-1Ais less than the threshold level 446, the comparator 450 produces arespective control signal 455 indicating that there is no need to adjustthe transmit power level P1 of the wireless base station 132-1 becausethere is little to no wireless interference to the wireless base station131-1.

Conversely, in response to detecting a condition in which the magnitudeof the overlap area value 444-1A indicating a size of the overlap region444-1 is greater than the threshold level 446, the comparator 450produces the output control signal 455 indicating to adjust themagnitude of the power transmit level associated with the wireless basestation 132-1. More specifically, in response to receiving notificationthat the magnitude of the overlap area value 444-1A is greater than thethreshold level 446, the power adjustor 475 communicates the powercontrol signal 405 to the wireless base station 132-1. In thisembodiment, the power control signal 405 notifies the wireless basestation 132-1 to reduce its respective transmit power level from P1 toP2, where P2>P1. As shown in the following FIG. 5 , the reduction in amagnitude of the transmit power level from P1 to P2 results in reducinga respective amount of wireless interference caused by the use ofwireless channel #2 by the wireless base station 132-1. In other words,the use of wireless channel #2 by the wireless base station 132-1minimally affects use of the wireless channel #2 in the region ofwireless coverage 431-1 associated with the wireless base station 131-1.

FIG. 5 is an example diagram illustrating adjustment of a transmit powerlevel from a wireless base station to reduce an overlap region andcorresponding wireless interference according to embodiments herein.

As previously discussed, the power adjustor 475 reduces the powertransmit level of wireless base station 132-1 from P1 to P2, resultingin a reduction of the region of wireless coverage 432-1 to region ofwireless coverage 432-2. This change in power reduces a magnitude of theoverlap region from overlap region 444-1 to overlap region 444-2. Theoverlap area value 444-2A indicating a size of the overlap region 444-2is less than or equal to the threshold level 446. In such an instance,the comparator 450 produces the respective output control signal 455 toindicate that there is no need for any further adjustment to the powerP2.

FIG. 6 is an example diagram illustrating a trigger event anddiscontinued use of a wireless channel by multiple wireless basestations according to embodiments herein.

As previously discussed, the respective incumbent entity can use any ofthe available wireless channels at any time because it has the highestpriority in the respective priority hierarchy.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the network environment 100 includes PAL (licensed)protection area 600. The PAL protection area 177 includes operation ofmultiple wireless base stations 131-1, 131-2, 131-3, 131-4, 131-5,131-6, 131-7, 131-8, and 131-9. Each of the wireless base stations isoperated by the service provider #1 having a respective license to usewireless channel #1 in network environment 100 when there is no use ofthe wireless channel #1 by incumbent entity 675.

In a similar manner as previously discussed, each of the wireless basestations provides a corresponding region of wireless coverage. Forexample, prior to detection of the incumbent entity 675 using thewireless channel #1: the wireless base station 131-1 provides region ofwireless coverage 631-1 via use of wireless channel #1; the wirelessbase station 131-2 provides region of wireless coverage 631-2 via use ofwireless channel #1; the wireless base station 131-3 provides region ofwireless coverage 631-3 via use of wireless channel #1; the wirelessbase station 131-4 provides region of wireless coverage 631-4 via use ofwireless channel #1; the wireless base station 131-5 provides region ofwireless coverage 631-5 via use of wireless channel #1; the wirelessbase station 131-6 provides region of wireless coverage 631-6 via use ofwireless channel #1; the wireless base station 131-7 provides region ofwireless coverage 631-7 via use of wireless channel #1; the wirelessbase station 131-8 provides region of wireless coverage 631-8 via use ofwireless channel #1; the wireless base station 131-9 provides region ofwireless coverage 631-9 via use of wireless channel #1.

As further shown, the pal protection area 600 (geographical region)includes a union or aggregation of regions of wireless coverage 631-1,631-2, 631-3, 631-4, 631-5, 631-6, 631-7, and 631-8. As previouslydiscussed, the service provider operating the respective wireless basestations 131 is afforded protection from interference by lower tierentities. However, the service provider operating the wireless basestations 131 must also respect use of the wireless channel #1 by theincumbent entity 675.

In one embodiment, the spectrum allocation management resource 141detects use or receives notification of use of the wireless channel #1by the incumbent entity 675. In response to this condition, the spectrumallocation management resource 141 detects or determines which of themultiple wireless base stations in the PAL protection area 600 areimpacted by the use of wireless channel #1 by the incumbent entity 675.

For example, assume that the spectrum allocation management resource 141detects that use of the wireless channel #1 by the incumbent entity 675such as indicated by region of wireless coverage 675-1. Based on knowingwhich of the wireless base stations in the PAL protection area 600potentially causes wireless interference to the incumbent entity 675 asindicated by the region of wireless coverage 675-1, the spectrumallocation management resource 141 subdivides the PAL protection area600 into multiple different regions as further shown in FIG. 7 .

FIG. 7 is an example diagram illustrating partitioning of a licensedentity protection area into multiple areas in response to a triggerevent and according to embodiments herein.

In this example embodiment, in response to detecting that use of thewireless channel #1 by one or more of the wireless base station 131-1,wireless base station 131-5, and wireless base station 131-7, may causeinterference to the incumbent entity 675 (based on information such as alocation of the incumbent entity, detected wireless energy transmittedby the incumbent entity, etc.), the spectrum allocation managementresource 141 (or other suitable communication management entity)partitions the PAL protection area 600 into PAL protection area 600-1including wireless base stations 131-2, 131-3, 131-4, 131-5, 131-8, and131-9 and PAL protection area 600-2 including wireless base stations131-1, 131-6, 131-7.

FIG. 8 is an example diagram illustrating detection of an overlap regionof wireless interference such as based on a union or aggregation ofmultiple regions of wireless coverage according to embodiments herein.

As previously discussed, in response to detecting the trigger event(incumbent use) in which wireless channel #1 (first wireless spectrum)is no longer available for use because the first-tier priority entity(incumbent entity 675) temporarily uses the first wireless spectrum(wireless channel #1), and determining that the first wireless station131-1, second wireless base station 131-6, and wireless base station131-7 are located in the PPA 600-1, the spectrum allocation managementresource 141 notifies the wireless base stations 131-1, 131-6, and 131-7to discontinue use of the wireless channel #1 to transmit communicationsin the network environment. Further, as previously discussed, inresponse to detecting use of the wireless channel #1 by the incumbententity 675, the spectrum allocation management resource 141 notifies thewireless base stations 131-1, 131-6, and 131-7 to use the backupallocated wireless channel #2.

However, according to certain embodiments herein, as previouslydiscussed, it is noted that it is desirable to continue to allow thewireless base station 132-1 (and any other wireless base stations) tocontinue using wireless channel #2 (even though it is a lowest tieruser) if the respective wireless base station 132-1 does not interferewith use of the wireless channel #2 by the wireless base station 131-1.

More specifically, in one embodiment, the spectrum allocation managementresource 142 or other suitable entity receives notification that thewireless base station 132-1 is operated in a vicinity of the PALprotection area 600-1. In such an instance, the spectrum allocationmanagement resource 142 implements appropriate monitoring and adjustmentto the operations of the wireless base station 132-1 such that it doesnot interfere with the wireless base stations in the PAL protection area600-1.

To this end, the spectrum allocation management resource 142 or othersuitable entity implements communication management entity 442 tomonitor and control operation of the wireless base station 132-1. Forexample, in one embodiment, the communication management entity 442determines a respective region of wireless coverage associated with thePPA 600-1. In this example embodiment, the region of wireless coverageassociated with the PPA 600-1 corresponds to a union or aggregate ofrespective ranges of the wireless coverage provided by wireless basestations 131-1, 131-6, and 131-7.

The spectrum allocation management resource 142 or other suitable entitysuch as communication management entity 442 determines a respectiveregion of wireless coverage 632-1 provided by the wireless base station132-1.

The communication management entity 442 then determines a respectiveoverlap area value 844-1A indicating a size of the overlap region 844-1(such as in square meters, feet, or other suitable metric) associatedwith the region of wireless coverage associated with the PPA 600-1. Ingeneral, if the magnitude of the overlap area 844-1A is very small,negligible, or zero, then the wireless base station 132-1 is free tocontinue to use the wireless channel #2 at the transmit power level P3(such as a maximum possible transmit power level).

In this example embodiment, to protect the wireless base station 131-1and corresponding communication devices from experiencing co-channelinterference, the communication management entity 442 compares themagnitude of the overlap area value 844-1A associated with the overlapregion 844-2 to a threshold level 846 representing a maximum allowedoverlap area. If the magnitude of the overlap area value 844-1A is lessthan the threshold level 846, the comparator 450 produces a respectivecontrol signal 455 indicating that there is no need to adjust thetransmit power level P3 of the wireless base station 132-1 because thereis little to no wireless interference to the wireless base stations inthe PPA 600-1.

Conversely, in response to detecting a condition in which the magnitudeof the overlap area value 844-1A indicating a size of the overlap region844-1 is greater than the threshold level 846, the comparator 450produces the output control signal 455 indicating to adjust themagnitude of the power transmit level associated with the wireless basestation 132-1. More specifically, in response to receiving notificationthat the magnitude of the overlap area value 844-1A is greater than thethreshold level 846, the power adjustor 475 communicates the powercontrol signal 405 to the wireless base station 132-1. In thisembodiment, the power control signal 805 notifies the wireless basestation 132-1 to reduce its respective transmit power level from P3 toP4, where P4<P3. As shown in the following FIG. 9 , the reduction in thetransmit power level from P3 to P4 results in reducing a respectiveamount of wireless interference caused by the use of wireless channel #2buy the wireless base station 132-1.

FIG. 9 is an example diagram illustrating adjustment of a transmit powerlevel from a wireless base station to reduce an overlap region andcorresponding wireless interference according to embodiments herein.

As previously discussed, the power adjustor 475 reduces the powertransmit level of wireless base station 132-1 from P3 to P4, resultingin a reduction of the region of wireless coverage 432-1 to region ofwireless coverage 632-1. This change in power reduces a magnitude of theoverlap region from overlap region 844-1 to overlap region 844-2. Theoverlap area value 844-2A indicating a size of overlap region 844-2 isless than or equal to the threshold level 846. In such an instance, thecomparator 450 produces the respective output control signal 455 toindicate that there is no need for any further power adjustment to P4.

Referring again to FIG. 8 , note that the overlap area value 844-1A canbe a normalized value such as a first value divided by a second value,where the first value indicates a size of the overlap region 844-1 andthe second value represents a size of the PPA 600-1. The threshold level846 is a normalized value such as between zero and 1. As an example, thethreshold level 846 may be a normalized value of 0.03 (such as 3%). Insuch an instance, the communication management entity 442 controls amagnitude of the wireless power provided by the wireless base station132-1 such that a size of the overlap region 844-1 is no more than 3% ofthe total area associated with the PPA 600-1.

In one embodiment, the communication management entity 442 (such asmanagement hardware) receives a first region of wireless coverage (suchas region specified by the PPA 600-1) provided by multiple wireless basestations 131-1, 131-6, and 131-7. Via the adjustor 475, thecommunication management entity 442 (such as implemented by the spectrumallocation management resource 142 or other suitable entity) controls apower level (such as reduces power P3 to P4) of wireless communicationstransmitted by a second wireless base station 132-1 operated by thethird-tier priority entity to reduce wireless interference caused by thesecond wireless base station 132-1 in the first region of wirelesscoverage) region as indicated by the PPA 600-1 or individual regions ofwireless coverage provided by the wireless base station 131-1, 131-6,and 131-7.

FIG. 10 is an example diagram illustrating generation of dynamic channelallocation information indicating allocation of spectrum at differenttiers of a channel hierarchy according to embodiments herein.

As previously discussed, wireless spectrum (bandwidth) manager 130 canbe configured to allocate any suitable type of wireless spectrum(spectrum, wireless channels, etc.) for use by the communication devicessuch as wireless base stations in the network environment 100.

In one non-limiting example embodiment, the bandwidth manager 130allocates spectrum (wireless channels) from a so-called CBRS (CitizensBand Radio System) band operating between 3.550 and 3.700 GHz(GigaHertz) (such as 150 MegaHertz or 15 wireless channels that are each10 MHz wide).

Also, as previously discussed, the spectrum allocation managementresources 141 and 142 (such as spectrum access systems, allocationmanagement resource, or other suitable entity) keeps track, at any giventime, which wireless channels or portions of the multi-tier wirelessspectrum or multi-tier radio band (such as CBRS band) are available inthe geographical region in which the network environment 100 resides. Ifgovernment use (such as use via a so-called incumbent user) is detectedor requested via appropriate input (such as around time T5) to theallocation management resource 140, certain channels (such as those usedby the general public) are no longer available for use as shown in thecontent access information 195-2.

More specifically, in this example, graph 1000 indicates that betweentime T1 and time T5 (such as mode #1 or first condition), there is noindication detection of an incumbent user and thus licensed wirelesschannels 1-10 are available for use by licensed wireless user (andpotentially unlicensed GAA users) for use; channels 11-15 are availablefor use by unlicensed GAA users. In a manner as previously discussed,these channels are allocated for use by the wireless base stations innetwork environment 100.

As further shown, at or around time T5, assume that the spectrum monitor140 detects use of the wireless channel #1 by an incumbent entity(first-tier priority user) having higher priority than the PAL users andGAA users. In such an instance, the bandwidth monitor 140 notifies thespectrum allocation management resource 141 and spectrum allocationmanagement resource 142 of such use prompting discontinued use ofwireless channel #1 as well as reallocation of wireless channel #2 tothe service provider #1 in a manner as previously discussed duringconditions in which wireless channel #1 is unavailable due to incumbententity use.

FIG. 11 is an example block diagram of a computer system forimplementing any of the operations as previously discussed according toembodiments herein.

Any of the resources (such as communication management resource,communication management entity 442, spectrum allocation managementresource 141, spectrum allocation management resource 142, spectrummonitor 130, spectrum manager 140, wireless station 131-1, wirelessstation 132-1, etc.) as discussed herein can be configured to includecomputer processor hardware and/or corresponding executable instructionsto carry out the different operations as discussed herein.

As shown, computer system 1150 of the present example includes aninterconnect 1111 that couples computer readable storage media 1112 suchas a non-transitory type of media (which can be any suitable type ofhardware storage medium in which digital information can be stored andretrieved), a processor 1113 (computer processor hardware), I/Ointerface 1114, and a communications interface 1117.

I/O interface(s) 1114 supports connectivity to repository 1180 and inputresource 1192.

Computer readable storage medium 1112 can be any hardware storage devicesuch as memory, optical storage, hard drive, floppy disk, etc. In oneembodiment, the computer readable storage medium 1112 storesinstructions and/or data.

As shown, computer readable storage media 1112 can be encoded withcommunication management application 140-1 (e.g., includinginstructions) to carry out any of the operations as discussed herein.

During operation of one embodiment, processor 1113 accesses computerreadable storage media 1112 via the use of interconnect 1111 in order tolaunch, run, execute, interpret or otherwise perform the instructions inmanagement application 140-1 stored on computer readable storage medium1112. Execution of the communication management application 140-1produces communication management process 140-2 to carry out any of theoperations and/or processes as discussed herein.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the computer system 1150can include other processes and/or software and hardware components,such as an operating system that controls allocation and use of hardwareresources to execute communication management application 140-1.

In accordance with different embodiments, note that computer system mayreside in any of various types of devices, including, but not limitedto, a mobile computer, a personal computer system, a wireless device, awireless access point, a base station, phone device, desktop computer,laptop, notebook, netbook computer, mainframe computer system, handheldcomputer, workstation, network computer, application server, storagedevice, a consumer electronics device such as a camera, camcorder, settop box, mobile device, video game console, handheld video game device,a peripheral device such as a switch, modem, router, set-top box,content management device, handheld remote control device, any type ofcomputing or electronic device, etc. The computer system 1150 may resideat any location or can be included in any suitable resource in anynetwork environment to implement functionality as discussed herein.

Functionality supported by the different resources will now be discussedvia flowcharts in FIG. 12 . Note that the steps in the flowcharts belowcan be executed in any suitable order.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart 1200 illustrating an example method according toembodiments. Note that there will be some overlap with respect toconcepts as discussed above.

In processing operation 1210, the allocation management resource 142 orother suitable entity (such as communication management entity 442)receives notification that a second-tier priority user (first serviceprovider) has been allocated use of a second wireless spectrum (such aswireless channel #2) as a replacement to first wireless spectrum (suchas wireless channel #1) in a wireless system (network environment 100)shared amongst a hierarchy of users (service provider #1, serviceprovider #2 etc.). Assume that the first wireless spectrum (wirelesschannel #1) is revoked from the second-tier priority user based on useof the channel #1 used by a first-tier priority user (incumbent entity).

In processing operation 1220, the allocation management resource 142controls a wireless transmit power level of a third-tier priority user(such as service provider #2) in the hierarchy to provide protected useof the second wireless spectrum (wireless channel #2) by the second-tierpriority user.

In sub-processing operation 1230, the allocation management resource 142identifies a first region of wireless coverage provided by thesecond-tier priority user using the second wireless spectrum (wirelesschannel #2).

In sub-processing operation 1240, the allocation management resource 142identifies a second region of wireless coverage provided by thethird-tier priority user.

In sub-processing operation 1250, the allocation management resource 142determines an overlap region between the first region of wirelesscoverage and the second region of wireless coverage.

In sub-processing operation 1260, the allocation management resource 142compares a size of the overlap region to a threshold size.

In sub-processing operation 1270, in response to detecting that the sizeof the overlap region is greater than the threshold size, the allocationmanagement resource 142 or other suitable entity reduces a magnitude ofthe wireless transmit power level of the third-tier priority user usingthe second wireless spectrum (wireless channel #2).

Further Embodiments

In accordance with further example embodiments, for each county, arespective allocation management resource (such as SAS) can beconfigured to map each of the assigned PAL channels (X≤7) to secondaryPAL channels not assigned (10−X) in the county in the lower 10 channelsof the CBRS band.

The allocation management resource (SAS) or other suitable entity maydetermine corresponding secondary PAL Protection Areas (PPAs) for thePAL wireless base station (such as so-called CBSDs).

The secondary PAL channel mapping and the corresponding secondary PPAsmay be shared among all SASs during SAS exchange of information (CPAS).

When a DPA (Dynamic Protection Area) is activated due to occurrence ofincumbent activity, the allocation management resource (SAS) reassignsthe affected PAL wireless base stations (such as CBSDs) to the secondaryPAL channels according to the backup mapping. All allocation managementresources in the wireless system may then protect the PAL CBSDs from GAAand other PAL CBSDs by using an iterative allocation process (IAP). Thedeficiency associated with this approach is that a DPA may impact some,but not all CBSDs in a PPA. Moreover, multiple DPAs may be activated atthe same time which may impact different CBSDs within a PPA. In thiscase, a PPA may have to split into multiple smaller PPAs, with some ofthem staying on the primary channel assigned to them, while othersmoving to a secondary channel.

There are several problems that make the above a difficult process suchas i) SAS computation complexity in determining split PPA contours, ii)SAS computation complexity in determining protection of split PPAs fromGAA and other PAL CBSDs based on aggregate interference, iii) SASrequirements for exchanging split PPA contours data every time a DPAactivates and deactivates, and iv) Frequent changes in PAL and GAA CBSDcarrier frequencies.

In one embodiment, each managing allocation management resource (SAS)provides a list of its PAL CBSDs impacted by DPA along with their newchannel assignment to other SASs at the time or shortly after detectionof DPA activation (caused by detecting incumbent use of with PALwireless channel.

As previously discussed, the backup channel assignment may be based onsecondary PAL channel mapping.

A new EIRP (such as Effective Isotropic Radiated Power, which is acalculation used to estimate the radiated output power of an isotropicantenna (a theoretical half wave dipole antenna that radiates perfectlyin all directions) is based on the existing CBSD grant on the oldchannel, except it is reduced when the new channel assignment impacts aTier-1 user or a Tier-2 (PAL) user in an adjoining county

The allocation management resource (SAS) computes (or retrieves frommemory) the coverage zone for each PAL CBSD impacted by DPA. In oneembodiment, the coverage zone or region of wireless coverage is based on−96 dBm coverage contour as defined by FCC 47 CFR Part 96 rules. Thecoverage contour determined for the old channel assignment can bereused.

The allocation management resource also computes the coverage zone forits GAA CBSDs located in the coverage zones and surrounding areas of thePAL CBSDs.

Trigger event allocation management resource determines the coverageoverlap for each of its GAA CBSDs with the impacted PAL CBSDs.

The coverage overlap is compared to a threshold. If the overlap is lessthan the threshold, then the GAA CBSD spectrum grant is unaffected.Otherwise, the grant is suspended or the EIRP is reduced to make theoverlap smaller than the threshold

When DPA deactivates, the managing allocation management resourceprovides an indication to other allocation management resources. Theoriginal PAL protection areas are restored and protected. The impactedGAA CBSD grants may be restored (unsuspended or returned back tooriginal EIRP).

The main benefit of this embodiment is that allocation managementresource does not have to run the iterative allocation process (IAP) todetermine PAL protection. Also, the coverage contours for PAL CBSDsdon't have to be recalculated.

In one embodiment, the allocation management resources exchange PAL infoand protect PAL CBSDs on an individual basis. Such an embodiment isuseful when a PPA has to be broken into many small PPAs because some,but not all, CBSDs in a PPA are reassigned to new channel(s) or whensome CBSDs are reassigned to one channel or channels and other CBSDs arereassigned to another channel or channels.

Further embodiments herein allow an allocation management resource toexchange PAL info and protect PAL CBSDs on a group/PPA basis. This isuseful when a PPA does not need to be broken as all CBSDs in a PPA areimpacted and moved to the same secondary channel(s) or when a PPA isbroken into a few PPAs only.

In this embodiment, SAS determines the new smaller PPA contours for itsCBSDs that need to be reassigned. It also determines the new PPA contourfor its remaining CBSDs that are not reassigned. The new PPA contoursare determined by taking a union of the coverage contours of its CBSDs.The allocation management resource shares this information with otherallocation management resources along with the new channel assignmentsand EIRP grants.

In further example embodiments, the allocation management resource canbe configured to determines the coverage overlap for each of its GAACBSDs with each of the new PPA contours. If desired, the coverageoverlap area can be normalized by the geometric mean of the coverageareas of the two contours (such as region of wireless coverageassociated with the third-tier priority entity and region of wirelesscoverage proved by a respective union of all regions of wirelesscoverage of the second-tier priority entity.

In a similar manner as previously discussed, the normalized coverageoverlap is compared to a threshold. If the overlap is less than thethreshold, then the GAA CBSD grant is unaffected. Otherwise, the grantis suspended or the EIRP is reduced to make the overlap smaller than thethreshold

Note again that techniques herein are well suited to facilitateprotection of licensed users (wireless network service providers) in ahierarchical wireless spectrum allocation system. However, it should benoted that embodiments herein are not limited to use in suchapplications and that the techniques discussed herein are well suitedfor other applications as well.

Based on the description set forth herein, numerous specific detailshave been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of claimedsubject matter. However, it will be understood by those skilled in theart that claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specificdetails. In other instances, methods, apparatuses, systems, etc., thatwould be known by one of ordinary skill have not been described indetail so as not to obscure claimed subject matter. Some portions of thedetailed description have been presented in terms of algorithms orsymbolic representations of operations on data bits or binary digitalsignals stored within a computing system memory, such as a computermemory. These algorithmic descriptions or representations are examplesof techniques used by those of ordinary skill in the data processingarts to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art.An algorithm as described herein, and generally, is considered to be aself-consistent sequence of operations or similar processing leading toa desired result. In this context, operations or processing involvephysical manipulation of physical quantities. Typically, although notnecessarily, such quantities may take the form of electrical or magneticsignals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared orotherwise manipulated. It has been convenient at times, principally forreasons of common usage, to refer to such signals as bits, data, values,elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, numerals or the like. Itshould be understood, however, that all of these and similar terms areto be associated with appropriate physical quantities and are merelyconvenient labels. Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparentfrom the following discussion, it is appreciated that throughout thisspecification discussions utilizing terms such as “processing,”“computing,” “calculating,” “determining” or the like refer to actionsor processes of a computing platform, such as a computer or a similarelectronic computing device, that manipulates or transforms datarepresented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities withinmemories, registers, or other information storage devices, transmissiondevices, or display devices of the computing platform.

While this invention has been particularly shown and described withreferences to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may bemade therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentapplication as defined by the appended claims. Such variations areintended to be covered by the scope of this present application. Assuch, the foregoing description of embodiments of the presentapplication is not intended to be limiting. Rather, any limitations tothe invention are presented in the following claims.

1. A method comprising: at a third-tier priority entity operated in awireless system shared amongst a hierarchy of entities including afirst-tier priority entity, a second-tier priority entity, and thethird-tier priority entity: initially receiving allocation of a secondwireless channel to wirelessly communicate with multiple communicationdevices; and receiving notification to adjust a power level ofwirelessly transmitting over the second wireless channel from thethird-tier priority entity in response to a condition in which thesecond-tier priority entity has been allocated use of the secondwireless channel as a replacement to a first wireless channel.
 2. Themethod as in claim 1, wherein the second-tier priority entity isallocated use of the second wireless channel entity as the replacementto the first wireless channel in response to detected use of the firstwireless channel by the first-tier priority entity.
 3. The method as inclaim 1 further comprising: in response to receiving the notification,reducing the power level of the third-tier priority entity wirelesslytransmitting communications over the second wireless channel.
 4. Themethod as in claim 3, wherein the reduced power level of wirelesslytransmitting the communications from the third-tier priority entity isoperative to reduce interference caused by the third-tier priorityentity to the second-tier priority entity using the second wirelesschannel.
 5. The method as in claim 1, wherein the second-tier priorityentity is granted use of the second wireless channel based on a licenseassigned to the second-tier priority entity; and wherein the second-tierpriority entity is afforded protected use of the second wireless channelfrom the third-tier priority entity based on the license.
 6. The methodas in claim 5, wherein the third-tier priority entity is a non-licensedentity in the hierarchy.
 7. The method as in claim 1, wherein thefirst-tier priority entity is an incumbent entity in the wirelesssystem, the wireless system operative to implement use of CBRS (CitizenBand Radio Service) wireless channels including the first wirelesschannel and the second wireless channel; wherein the second-tierpriority entity is a PAL (Priority Access Licensed) entity in thewireless system; and wherein the third-tier priority entity is a GAA(General Authorized Access) entity in the wireless system.
 8. The methodas in claim 1, wherein the first-tier priority entity in the hierarchyhas higher priority rights to use the first wireless channel than thesecond-tier priority entity; and wherein the second-tier priority entityin the hierarchy has higher priority rights to use the second wirelesschannel than the third-tier priority entity.
 9. The method as in claim1, wherein the second-tier priority entity and the third-tier priorityentity are simultaneously allocated use of the second wireless channel.10. The method as in claim 1, wherein the second-tier priority entity ispre-assigned use of the second wireless channel as a backup wirelesschannel for a condition in which the first-tier priority entity isdetected as using the first wireless channel, the second-tier priorityentity being pre-assigned use of the second wireless channel prior toreceiving the notification.
 11. An apparatus comprising: communicationmanagement hardware associated with a third-tier priority entityoperated in a wireless system shared amongst a hierarchy of entitiesincluding a first-tier priority entity, a second-tier priority entity,and the third-tier priority entity, the communication managementhardware operative to: initially receive allocation of a second wirelesschannel to wirelessly communicate with multiple communication devices;and receive notification to adjust a power level of wirelesslytransmitting over the second wireless channel from the third-tierpriority entity in response to a condition in which the second-tierpriority entity has been allocated use of the second wireless channel asa replacement to a first wireless channel.
 12. The system as in claim11, wherein the second-tier priority entity is allocated use of thesecond wireless channel entity as the replacement to the first wirelesschannel in response to detected use of the first wireless channel by thefirst-tier priority entity.
 13. The system method as in claim 11,wherein the communication management hardware is further operative to:in response to receiving the notification, reduce the power level of thethird-tier priority entity wirelessly transmitting communications overthe second wireless channel.
 14. The system as in claim 13, wherein thereduced power level of wirelessly transmitting the communications fromthe third-tier priority entity is operative to reduce interferencecaused by the third-tier priority entity to the second-tier priorityentity using the second wireless channel.
 15. The system as in claim 11,wherein the second-tier priority entity is granted use of the secondwireless channel based on a license assigned to the second-tier priorityentity; and wherein the second-tier priority entity is affordedprotected use of the second wireless channel from the third-tierpriority entity based on the license.
 16. The system as in claim 15,wherein the third-tier priority entity is a non-licensed entity in thehierarchy.
 17. The system as in claim 11, wherein the first-tierpriority entity is an incumbent entity in the wireless system, thewireless system operative to implement use of CBRS (Citizen Band RadioService) wireless channels including the first wireless channel and thesecond wireless channel; wherein the second-tier priority entity is aPAL (Priority Access Licensed) entity in the wireless system; andwherein the third-tier priority entity is a GAA (General AuthorizedAccess) entity in the wireless system.
 18. The system as in claim 11,wherein the first-tier priority entity in the hierarchy has higherpriority rights to use the first wireless channel than the second-tierpriority entity; and wherein the second-tier priority entity in thehierarchy has higher priority rights to use the second wireless channelthan the third-tier priority entity.
 19. The system as in claim 11,wherein the second-tier priority entity and the third-tier priorityentity are simultaneously allocated use of the second wireless channel.20. The system as in claim 11, wherein the second-tier priority entityis pre-assigned use of the second wireless channel as a backup wirelesschannel for a condition in which the first-tier priority entity isdetected as using the first wireless channel, the second-tier priorityentity being pre-assigned use of the second wireless channel prior toreceiving the notification.
 21. Computer-readable storage hardwarehaving instructions stored thereon, the instructions, when carried outby computer processor hardware associated with a third-tier priorityentity in a wireless system shared amongst a hierarchy of entitiesincluding a first-tier priority entity, a second-tier priority entity,and the third-tier priority entity, cause the computer processorhardware to: initially receive allocation of a second wireless channelto communicate with multiple communication devices: and receivenotification to reduce a power level of wirelessly transmitting from thethird-tier priority entity in response to detecting that the second-tierpriority entity has been allocated use of the second wireless channel asa replacement to a first wireless channel.